An improved smooth particle hydrodynamics method for modelling crack propagation in layered rock cells and slopes

An improved smooth particle hydrodynamics (SPH) method is implemented to simulate crack propagation in layered rock cells and slopes, and the results are qualitatively compared with those of laboratory tests. An invariant stress drop method based on the spherical stress tensor was proposed in the improved damage framework. When the base particle meets the Mohr–Coulomb criterion with tensile truncation, the virtual stress bridge is damaged; that is, the initial stress yield surface immediately decreases until it reaches residual stress circle yield surfaces. The weak and broken stress bridge provides the path for crack initiation and propagation at any angle, respectively. Finally, the pros and cons of the improved SPH method for use in the rock field are compared with those of other methods. The results indicate that the improved SPH method precisely predicts crack propagation in layered rock cells and slopes. The major strong points of the improved SPH method are determining and validating the parameters of the particles and the time consumption. We infer that this method is effective and rapid in the crack propagation simulation for other types of rock mass.